Wave Dynamics GuidesOperational Waste Management Plans Explained
What an Operational Waste Management Plan covers for apartments, offices and mixed-use schemes: bin store sizing, segregation, collection and management.
In Short
An Operational Waste Management Plan (OWMP) sets out how waste will be stored, segregated and collected once a building is occupied. It shows the planning authority that bin stores are big enough, residents and tenants can separate their waste properly and collection vehicles can access the site safely.
- Required with many residential, commercial and mixed-use planning applications.
- Estimates waste volumes and sizes bin stores to suit.
- Provides for segregation of dry recyclables, food waste, glass and residual waste.
- Covers collection routes, frequency and building management responsibilities.
Why Planning Authorities Ask for an OWMP
Poorly designed bin stores cause overflowing bins, odour, pests and blocked footpaths. Irish waste policy also requires households and businesses to separate their waste. An OWMP shows that the design supports this from day one.
What the Plan Covers
- Estimated weekly waste volumes for each waste type.
- Number and size of bins and the area needed for bin stores.
- Location and design of stores, with ventilation, lighting and washing facilities.
- Routes from homes and units to stores, and from stores to the collection point.
- Collection vehicle access and turning.
- Management company responsibilities and resident information.
Getting the Layout Right Early
Bin stores are often squeezed late in design. Bringing the OWMP in at an early design stage means stores are sized properly and placed where they work for residents, refuse collectors and the building manager.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is food waste segregation required for apartments?
Irish waste regulations require segregation of food waste, so OWMPs for apartment schemes should provide for it.
Who uses the OWMP after planning?
The building owner or management company, who uses it to set up waste contracts and inform residents and tenants.
This guide gives general information and is not a substitute for project-specific advice. Requirements change, so always check the current regulations, guidance and your planning conditions. Ask our team about your project.
Jon Maguire (BSc Hons MIOA) brings over 8 years of expertise in acoustic consultancy, specialising in environmental acoustics with a focus on 3D modelling, assessments, and detailed design for industrial, commercial, and energy projects. He has lead noise assessments for key clients while thriving in multidisciplinary environments. Jon’s diplomatic communication skills are ideal for stakeholder consultation.
Jack is a Field Engineer at Wave Dynamics, supporting the delivery of environmental monitoring and acoustic consultancy services through detailed on-site fieldwork. He has hands-on experience in noise monitoring, vibration monitoring, and dust monitoring across a variety of infrastructure, construction, and environmental projects. Jack is involved in the setup, operation, and maintenance of monitoring equipment, ensuring accurate data collection in line with relevant standards and project requirements. He works closely with consultants and project teams, providing reliable field support that underpins high-quality assessments and reporting.
Aidan is the Director for all U.K Operations and has worked in multiple industries including for clients in the UK and internationally operating in the residential, industry, healthcare, education, and construction sectors.
